Gorilla Playsets 01-1073 Operating instructions

166 Etowah Industrial Court

Canton, GA 30114

www.gorillaplaysets.com

Outing with Tube Slide - Tarp Roof

Model: 1851ET

(BOXES: 1851-1, 1851-2, 1852,

1857, Slide Box & Tube Slide Box)

*51-1073-T*

51-1073-T

™

playsets

REV: 11.15.2019

-NOTICE-

This playset is intended for residential use only. it is not intended nor warranted for either public or commercial use.

™

playsets

Please inspect and inventory all parts immediately upon accepting delivery. Use the

inventory pages in the manual to make sure you have received all necessary parts.

The quickest method to get any parts that are missing or damaged is to use our “Quick

Response Center” located at:

www.gorillaplaysets.com/support

DO NOT RETURN THIS PRODUCT TO THE RETAILER OR CONTACT THE RETAILER DIRECTLY.

THE RETAILER DOES NOT STOCK COMPONENTS.

PLEASE RETAIN ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. KEEP THEM IN A SAFE

PLACE WHERE YOU CAN REFER TO THEM AS NEEDED. CHECK FOR REVISED INSTRUC-

TIONS AT:

www.gorillaplaysets.com/manuals

GORILLA PLAYSETS WARRANTY – 2019

Gorilla Playsets® (“Gorilla”) warrants its play sets to be free from defects in workmanship and materials, under

normal use and conditions, for 10 years for above ground structural wood components and for one year for all

other components (e.g., swings, hardware, plastics, tarps, rope ladder, etc.).

Gorilla warrants all remaining products, including but not limited to its, Malibu Playhouse, Free Standing Swing Set,

Free Standing Tire Swing, See-Saw, Children’s Picnic Table with Umbrella, Play-Zee-Bo™, Cedar Toy Chest,

Interlocking Sandbox and spring riders to be free from defects in workmanship and materials, under normal use

and conditions, for a period of 1 year.

Cosmetic imperfections and natural tendencies of wood such as peeling, splintering, warping, seasonal checking

or cracking, knots or knot holes, etc. are normal characteristics of all outdoor wooden play equipment and are

not covered by this warranty. Checks or cracks in wood components that do not affect the intended function of

the part, piece or overall swing set are not covered under this warranty.

Wood rot or decay that develops because the product was installed in an area with poor drainage is not covered

under this warranty. Lumber that has been damaged by wood boring bees, or conditions that develop as a result of

faulty or improper installation of the product, are not covered by this warranty. Fading of stain, discoloration or

mold on any wood part or accessory is not covered by this warranty. Cracks in plastic components, surface rust on

hardware and chips on powder coated materials are not considered defects in material as long as they do not

affect the functionality or structural integrity of the part or component.

It is the owner’s responsibility to maintain the swing set. This includes but is not limited to staining and sealing

the lumber as needed and regular inspection to be sure all hardware is tight. Instructions for proper

maintenance can be found on Gorilla’s website. Imperfections or conditions that develop because of a failure to

properly maintain the swing set are not covered by this warranty.

Gorilla will, at its discretion, replace any above ground part within the stated warranty period that is defective in

workmanship or materials. This decision is subject to verification of the defect, which, at Gorilla’s discretion, may

be accomplished by submitting photographs or by delivery of the defective part to Gorilla Playsets • 166 Etowah

Industrial Ct. • Canton, GA 30114 • 1-800-882-0272 Monday to Friday 9AM-5PM EST. Any warranty claim must

include proof of purchase, including the date of purchase. In addition, within the first 30 days from the date of

purchase, Gorilla will replace any parts discovered to be missing from or damaged in the original packaging.

This warranty is valid only if the product is used for the purpose for which it was designed and installed at a

residential, single-family dwelling. This warranty is void if the product is used in a commercial, institutional or

multi-family setting. This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or (a) products that have been damaged

by acts of God and/or nature, negligence, misuse or accident; (b) products that have been modified or repaired

by unauthorized persons; (c) the cost of labor; or (d) the cost of shipping any replacement product or part.

GORILLA DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED,

STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A

PARTICULAR PURPOSE. GORILLA WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. This

warranty is non-transferable and does not extend to the owners of the product subsequent to the original

purchaser. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranties or exclusion of incidental or consequential

damages, so these restrictions may not be applicable to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may

also have other rights which vary from state to state.

IMPORTANT SAFETY GUIDELINES

This product is recommended for use by children ages 3-11. This product is intended

for residential use only and not intended for use in any public setting. A safety surface

such as mulch or recycled tire should be used under the play set to prevent injury from

falls. Also a 6 foot safety zone should be used around the entire play set.

As with any home project, good judgment and respect for power tools will greatly

reduce the risk of injury. Gorilla recommends you follow all tool manufacturers’ safety

guidelines. Always wear eye protection and safety gloves to prevent injury. In several

phases of construction two people may be required for lifting and securing of lumber.

While the play set is being constructed, please keep children off the equipment until the

project is complete. Bolts and screw heads should be checked regularly for tightness.

The ground ladder, rope ladder, slide, swings and other areas where children spend a

majority of their playtime should be checked more frequently.

Gorilla shall not be liable for incidental, indirect or consequential damages or

injuries that result from building and/or playing on our play sets. Adult supervision is

recommended anytime a play set is being used.

WEIGHT LIMITS FOR GORILLA PLAYSETS

• FORT PLATFORMS: 800 LBS. TOTAL WEIGHT

• SWING BELT: 225 LBS.

• TANDEM SWINGS: 70 LBS. PER CHILD. UP TO 140 LBS. TOTAL WEIGHT.

• TRAPEZE: 125 LBS.

• FULL BUCKET SWING/ HALF BUCKET SWING: 50 LBS.

• HEAVY DUTY TODDLER BUCKET SWING: 85 LBS.

• INFANT SWING: 35 LBS.

• TIRE SWING: 125 LBS. TOTAL WEIGHT

• ROPE LADDER: 75 LBS.

• ROCK WALL: 150 LBS.

• CLIMBING RAMP: 150 LBS.

• MONKEY BARS: 175 LBS.

• ALL SLIDES: 150 LBS.

Gorilla recommends that the weight limits for all components must not be exceeded.

Failure to adhere to these and other safety guidelines could result in damage to the play

set and injury to the users.

PRODUCT REGISTRATION

Gorilla Playsets

™

manufactures

the nest quality products that

are designed for outstanding

strength and durability. We back

our products with unparalleled

warranties. In the unlikely event

that you need to contact us about

covered repairs, we must have a

valid Product Registration on le.

3 EASY WAYS TO REGISTER

OPTION 1

Complete the online registration form at:

http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/register

OPTION 2

Fax this completed form to:

(678) 880-3300

OPTION 3

Mail this completed form to:

Gorilla Playsets

166 Etowah Industrial Court

Canton, GA 30114

Name: _______________________________________________________ Email: ______________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Comments: ________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Would you recommend this product to friends & family?

Please select

your age

How would

you rate the

quality of this

product?

18-30

2-3

41-50

6-7

Yes



Excellent



Above Average



Average



Below Average



Poor

No

31-40

4-5

51+

8+

How old are

your children?

Where did you buy this product?

Your registration information:

Date of Purchase Store Store City Store State

Street City State Zip

May we add you to our mailing list?

Yes No

May we use your comments on websites or other marketing materials?

Yes No

Number of

children

- OUTING WITH TUBE SLIDE - TARP ROOF (1851ET) -

THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ

Congratulations! You have just purchase one of the finest residential wooden swing sets available today. As

with any wooden product that spends its entire life outside, in varying elements, it is important to know what to

expect with your new swing set so that your family can enjoy it for many years.

As your swing set acclimates to its new environment, natural characteristics of the wood can show in the form

of checks, or “cracks” in the lumber. In almost all cases this is normal and it will not affect the structural

integrity of your play set and is not covered under warranty.

KEEPING YOUR PLAYSET LIKE NEW

MUST DO’s

The following owner responsibilities are crucial to the safety, integrity and aesthetic appeal of your

swing set and may affect the warranty if not adhered to.

WITHIN 60 DAYS

•

Check and tighten Hex Bolts/T-nuts, Carriage Bolts/Lock-nuts, and Lag Screws within the first 60 days and

then twice annually – once before each season and then once during the season.

WITHIN 90 DAYS

• Apply a sealant or semi-transparent stain with sealant within the first 90 days of owning the swing set. Our

own Stain/sealant is available online here: http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/Playground-Sealant-p/10-0003.htm

Oil based stain or water based stain may be used. Should you choose to use other stain we suggest asking

the product covering specialists at any number of specialty paint stores or home improvement centers for a

product that would work best for your local environment. ** TIP – while the set is new, take a small board from

to the store with you so they can color match the tint of the stain or sealant.

SEASONAL REMINDERS

•

If your area experiences regular snowfall, remove your fabric tarp/canopy to avoid stretching, sagging or

tearing of the material. Store it inside, folded up, and it will be as good as new when winter is over.

•

If your area experiences extremely cold temperatures, remove swing belts and other pliable features to

prolong the lifespan of these play activities.

OTHER TIPS

•

Spray swing hangers with Pam, Mazola or olive oil to stop squeaking; do not use petroleum based products

such as WD-40 or motor oil.

•

To repel yellow jackets and wasps, use a cotton ball and dab interior wooden corners

underneath the play set

deck with a liquid dish soap. Avoid using insecticides.

•

To speed up the slide wipe the center of slide with wax paper every 2 - 3 weeks.

For additional safety and maintenance guidelines, please visit our website.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

CUSTOMER MUST READ AND RETAIN

Please go to the following links and read important SAFETY information prior

to using your new play structure.

http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/Swing-Set-Safety-s/85.htm

https://www.gorillaplaysets.com/Maintenance-s/129.htm

http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/manuals.html (Click on your specific model)

http://www.gorillaplaysets.com/Warranty-s/82.htm

NOTE: Your children’s safety is our #1 concern. Observing the following statements

and warnings reduces the likelihood of serious injury. Please review these safety

rules regularly with your children.

WARNING:

Children must NOT use this play set until it has been

completely assembled and inspected by an adult to

ensure it has been properly installed.

Gorilla Playsets

166 Etowah Industrial Court

Canton, GA. 30114

Model: 1851ET

(BOXES: 1851-1, 1851-2, 1852,

1857, SLIDE BOX & TUBE

SLIDE BOX)

REV: 11.15.2019

Safety Guidelines……………………………………….......……...........................Pages 3-7

Leveling Fort, General Information and Denitions…………………...................Pages 7-9

How to Install T-nuts, and Swing Beam Loading............................................Pages 10-12

Site Plan, Safety Zone, Required Tool List and Kit Contents.........................Pages 13-15

Hardware, Lumber and Accessory Checklists....……………………………....Pages 16-30

Framing Fort - Left Side, Right Side, Front, then Rear……..…….................... Steps 1-13

Attaching Fort Side Supports.....………………………...…..……..…......….…….... Step 14

Leveling the play set..……………………..……...................................................... Step 15

Building the Rockwall…………….……………………..…….........................… Steps 16-18

Panel Supports..……...……………....................................................................… Step 19

Ladder Assembly and Installation................................................................... Steps 20-21

Deck Board Installation.......................................................................................... Step 22

Swing Beam Assembly………………………………………………………....... Steps 23-29

Top Panel Board (Rear)......................................................................................... Step 30

Center Posts……………...……………………………...................................…....... Step 31

Deck Stringer......................................................................................................... Step 32

Filler Boards/Panel Slats................................................................................ Steps 33-34

Framing Tarp.................................................................................................. Steps 35-37

Slide Block/Slide………….....………............................................................... Steps 38-39

Hanging Swings……………………………………………………….…….……......... Step 40

Securing Tarp………………………………………………………………..……......... Step 41

Climbing Rope……................................................................................................ Step 42

Flag Kits………………………………………………………………………………......Step 43

Attaching Accessories and Ground Stakes……………....…………………….. Steps 44-47

Attaching Name Plate, Warning Plate and Bolt Caps..................................... Steps 48-49

Part 2: Tube Slide................................................................................................. Page 81

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PLEASE READ OWNER’S MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE STARTING ASSEMBLY!

2

Safety and Maintenance Tips for Your New Play Set:

NOTE: Your children’s safety is our #1 concern. Observing the following

statements and warnings reduces the likelihood of serious or fatal injury. Please

review these safety rules regularly with your children.

• This play set is designed for the use of 4 occupants who have a combined weight not exceeding 800

pounds on the elevated oor, 3 occupants who have a combined weight of 425 pounds on the swing

area, for a total Unit capacity of 7 occupants who have a combined weight of 1225. (This weight does

not include any picnic table area(s).)

• On-site adult supervision is required.

• Teach children not to walk close to, in front of, behind, or between moving swings or other moving

playground equipment.

• Teach children to sit in and never stand on swings

• Teach children not to twist the chains and ropes and not to loop them over the swing beam, since

this may reduce the strength of the chain or rope.

• Teach children not to jump from swings or other playground equipment in motion.

• Teach children not to push empty seats. The seat may hit them and cause serious injury.

• Teach children to sit in the center of the swings with their full weight on the seats.

• Teach children not to use the equipment in a manner other than intended.

• Teach children to always go down slides feet rst. Never slide headrst.

• Teach children to look before they slide to make sure no one is at the bottom.

• Teach children to never run up a slide, as this increases their chances of falling.

• The parents should have the children dress appropriately with well-tting shoes. No clogs, ip-

ops, or sandals are allowed. Loose clothing such as scarves, ponchos or capes should not be worn.

Always take off, tie up or tuck in cords and drawstrings on children’s clothing. These things can get

caught on playground equipment and strangle a child.

• Teach children not to climb when the equipment is wet.

• Teach children to never jump from a fort deck. They should always use the ladder, ramp or slide.

• Teach children to never crawl or walk across the top of monkey bars or swing beam.

• Teach children to never crawl on top of a fort roof or on the outside of a tube slide.

• Verify that any suspended climbing ropes, chains, or cables are secured at both ends and that they

cannot be looped back onto itself.

• Teach children not to attach items to the playground equipment that are not specically designed for

use with the equipment, such as, but not limited to, jump ropes, clothesline, pet leashes, cables and

chain as they may cause a strangulation hazard.

• Teach children to never wrap their legs around swing chain.

• Teach children to never slide down the swing chain.

• Teach children to remove their bike or other sports helmet before playing on the playgound

equipment.

• Teach children to NEVER look at the sun or other bright light through any accessory such as but not

limited to a telescope, periscope or binoculars.

• Never add extra length to chain or rope. The chains or ropes provided are the maximum length

designed for the swings.

WARNING: Children must NOT use this play set until it has been completely

assembled and inspected by an adult to insure it has been properly installed and

the swing beam legs are anchored.

3

Safety and Maintenance Tips for Your New Play Set:

(continued)

Playgrounds should be inspected on a regular basis. If any of the following conditions are noted, they should be removed,

corrected or repaired immediately to prevent injuries.

• Hardware that is loose, worn or that has protrusions or projections.

• Exposed equipment footings.

• Scattered debris, litter, rocks, or tree roots.

• Splinters, large cracks and decayed wood components.

• Deterioration and corrosion on structural components, which connect to the ground.

• Swing chains, rings, ropes, etcetera should always be fastened to a rotating swing hanger. NEVER attach a chain, ring,

rope, etcetera to a stationary hanger such as but not limited to an eye bolt. Severe wear could occur leading to an injury.

• Missing or damaged equipment conditions, such as but not limited to handholds, guardrails or swing seats.

At the beginning of each play season:

□ Tighten all hardware. (But not so tight that you crack the wood.)

□ Lubricate all metallic moving parts per manufacturer instructions..

□ Check all protective coverings on bolts, pipes, edges and corners. Replace if they are loose, cracked or missing.

□ Check all moving parts including swing seats, ropes, cables and chains for wear, rust, or other deterioration. Replace

as needed. Replacement should be made of any swing seat that has developed cracks in the plastic seat.

□ Check metal parts for rust. If found, sand and repaint using a nonlead-based paint meeting the requirements of 16

C.F.R. 1303. These requirements are available at: http://www.cpsc.gov/

□ Check all wood members for deterioration and splinters. Sand down splinters and replace deteriorating wood members.

Once or twice a year, depending on your climate conditions, you must apply some type of protection (sealant) to the wood

or your play set. Please note this is a requirement of your warranty.

□ Reinstall any plastic parts, such as swing seats or any other items that were removed for the cold season.

□ Rake and check depth of loose ll protective surfacing materials to prevent compaction and to maintain appropriate

depth. Replace as necessary.

□ Creating and maintaining the play set on a level location is very important. As your children play, your play set will

slowly dig its way into the soil, and it is very important that it settles evenly. Make sure the play set is level and true.

Twice a month during play season:

□ Tighten all hardware. (But not so tight that you crack the wood.)

□ Check all protective coverings on bolts, pipes, edges and corners. Replace if they are loose, cracked or missing.

□ Rake and check depth of loose ll protective surfacing materials to prevent compaction and to maintain appropriate

depth. Replace as necessary.

Once a month during play season:

□ Lubricate all metallic moving parts per manufacturer instructions.

□ Check all moving parts including swing seats, ropes, cables and chains for wear, rust, or other deterioration. Replace

as needed. Replacement should be made of any swing seat that has developed cracks in the plastic seat.

At the end of each play season or when the temperature drops below 32

O

F:

□ Remove plastic swing seats and take indoors or do not use.

□ Rake and check depth of loose ll protective surfacing materials to prevent compaction and to maintain appropriate

depth. Replace as necessary.

Warning Label Maintenance

□ Owners shall be responsible for maintaining the legibility of all warning labels. Replace as required.

Disposal Instructions:

When the playset is no longer desired or when it reaches the end of its lifetime it should be disassembled and disposed of

in such a way that no unreasonable hazard will exist at the time the playset is discarded.

4

PLAYGROUND SURFACING MATERIALS

SECTION 4 OF THE CONSUMER PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION’S OUTDOOR HOME

PLAYGROUND SAFETY HANDBOOK9

Select Protective Surfacing

One of the most important things you can do to reduce the likelihood of serious head injuries is to install shock-absorbing protective surfacing under

and around your play equipment. The protective surfacing should be applied to a depth that is suitable for the equipment height in accordance with

ASTM Specication F 1292. There are different types of surfacing to choose from; whichever product you select, follow these guidelines:

NOTE: Do not install home playground equipment over concrete, asphalt, or any other hard surface. A fall onto a hard surface can result in

serious injury to the equipment user. Grass and dirt are not considered protective surfacing because wear and environmental factors can reduce

their shock absorbing effectiveness. Carpeting and thin mats are generally not adequate protective surfacing. Ground level equipment – such as

a sandbox, activity wall, playhouse or other equipment that has no elevated play surface – does not need any protective surfacing.

Loose-Fill Materials:



Maintain a minimum depth of 9 inches of loose- ll materials such as wood mulch/chips, engineered wood ber (EWF), or shredded/recycled

rubber mulch for equipment up to 8 feet high; and 9 inches of sand or pea gravel for equipment up to 5 feet high. NOTE: An initial ll level of

12 inches will compress to about a 9- inch depth of surfacing over time. The surfacing will also compact, displace, and settle, and should be

periodically relled to maintain at least a 9- inch depth.



Use a minimum of 6 inches of protective surfacing for play equipment less than 4 feet in height. If maintained properly, this should be

adequate. (At depths less than 6 inches, the protective material is too easily displaced or compacted.)



Use containment, such as digging out around the perimeter and/or lining the perimeter with landscape edging. Don’t forget to account for

water drainage. U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, D.C., 20207 or call the toll-free hotline :1-800-638-2772



Check and maintain the depth of the loose-ll surfacing material. To maintain the right amount of loose-ll materials, mark the correct level on

play equipment support posts. That way you can easily see when to replenish and/or redistribute the surfacing.



Do not install loose ll surfacing over hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.

Poured-In-Place Surfaces or Pre-Manufactured Rubber Tiles:

You may be interested in using surfacing other than loose-ll materials – like rubber tiles or poured-in-place surfaces.



Installations of these surfaces generally require a professional and are not "do-it-yourself" projects.



Review surface specications before purchasing this type of surfacing. Ask the installer/manufacturer for a report showing that the product

has been tested to the following safety standard: ASTM F 1292 Standard Specication for Impact Attenuation of Surfacing Materials within the

Use Zone of Playground Equipment. This report should show the specic height for which the surface is intended to protect against serious head

injury. This height should be equal to or greater than the fall height – vertical distance between a designated play surface (elevated surface for

standing, sitting, or climbing) and the protective surfacing below – of your play equipment.

 Check the protective surfacing frequently for wear.

Placement

Proper placement and maintenance of protective surfacing is essential. Be sure to



Extend surfacing at least 6 feet from the equipment in all directions.



For to-fro swings, extend protective surfacing in front of and behind the swing to a distance equal to twice the height of the top bar from which

the swing is suspended.



For tire swings, extend surfacing in a circle whose radius is equal to the height of the suspending chain or rope, plus 6 feet in all directions.

2H 2H

H

L

6 ft.

6 ft. 6 ft.

L+6 ft.

6 ft.

Use Zone for Single-Axis Swings Use Zone for Multi-Axis Swings

Denotes Use Zone with Protective Surfacing

9 This information has been extracted from the CPSC publications "Playground Surfacing—Technical Information Guide" and "Handbook for Public

Playground Safety." Copies of these reports can be obtained by sending a postcard to the: Ofce of Public Affairs, U.S. Consumer Product Safety

Commission, Washington, D.C., 20207 or call the toll-free hotline: 1-800-638-2772

5

Play Set Surfacing Recommendations:

Below are some of the recommendations that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety

Commission (CPSC) offers from its Handbook for Public Playground Safety. The guide

can be downloaded in full at www.cpsc.gov/PageFiles/122149/325.pdf

1. Protective Surfacing - Since almost 60% of all injuries are caused by falls to the

ground, protective surfacing under and around all playground equipment is the most

critical safety factor on playgrounds.

Certain manufactured synthetic surfaces also are acceptable; however, test data on

shock absorbing performance should be requested from the manufacturer.

Asphalt and concrete are unacceptable. They do not have any shock absorbing

properties. Similarly, grass and turf should not be used. Their ability to absorb shock

during a fall can be reduced considerably through wear and environmental conditions.

Certain loose-ll surfacing materials are acceptable. Surfacing materials are acceptable,

such as the types and depths shown in the table.

Fall Heights and Materials

Type Of Material 6 in. depth 9 in. depth 12 in. depth

Double-Shredded bark mulch 6’ Fall Height 10’ Fall Height 11’ Fall Height

Wood Chips 6’ Fall Height 7’ Fall Height 12’ Fall Height

Fine Sand 5’ Fall Height 5’ Fall Height 9’ Fall Height

Shredded Tires* 10-12’ Fall Height N/A N/A

Fine Gravel 6’ Fall Height 7’ Fall Height 10’ Fall Height

*This data is from tests conducted by independent testing laboratories on a 6-inch depth of uncompressed shredded tire samples

produced by four manufacturers. The tests reported critical heights, which varied from 10 feet to greater than 12 feet. It is

recommended that persons seeking to install shredded tires as a protective surface request test data from the supplier showing the

critical height of the material when it was tested in accordance with ASTM F1292.

It should be recognized that all injuries due to falls cannot be prevented no matter what

surfacing material is used.

6

2. Fall Zones - A fall zone, covered with a protective surfacing material, is essential

under and around equipment where a child might fall. This area should be free of other

equipment and obstacles onto which a child might fall. Stationary climbing equipment

and slides should have a fall zone extending a Minimum of 6’ in all directions from the

perimeter of the equipment.

Swings should have a fall zone extending a minimum of 6’ from the outer edge of the

support structure on each side. The fall zone in front and back of the swing should

extend out a minimum distance of twice the height of the swing as measured from the

ground to the top of the swing support structure.

LEVELING YOUR FORT DURING ASSEMBLY

• Complete the steps which will be the basic frame of the fort. {i.e. four corner posts with

base (sand box boards) and deck supports}

• Position in the most level area chosen for the play set, keeping in mind the location

and size of the swing beam, ladder, slides, etc. that extend off the fort.

• Once the frame is in the nal position, check for vertical and horizontal levelness to

determine which side(s) will need to be dug into the ground to level the play set.

• With a shovel, score the ground around the outside edges of the sandbox boards on

the ‘high’ side of the fort. This is the area that will be dug in. Make sure to score deep

enough; the scored lines will be your digging template.

• Push the frame off and away from the scored area, far enough to dig and remove dirt

to reach the appropriate depth.

• Dig a channel along the scored line(s) for the base of the fort (corner post and

sandbox boards) to rest into. Dig the channel(s) to the same level depth. The bottom

of the channel(s) should be level to each other so your frame doesn’t teeter or rock

because the channel(s) are uneven.

• Once you have removed enough grass and dirt, slide/push the frame into the

channel(s). Place a level on the vertical and horizontal boards of the frame to determine

if enough soil, or too much, was removed.

• Repeat this process until the basic frame is plumb and level and in its nal position

before completing the rest of the assembly.

• Measure to make sure fort is square.

Important: if you require a channel depth of more than 6”, then we

recommend you have your play set area professionally graded before

completing assembly.

Example Play area:

= Area to be scored and

channeled for levelness

The diagonal measure-

ments should be the

same from corner post to

corner post. If not, adjust

corner posts so that the

distance is equal.

Side View of

Playset Frame

(Grade is the

Slanted Line)

7

General Info to Review Before Installation

• Depending on your experience, assembly of the playset can take as little as 6 hours

up to 24 hours, depending on size, after inventory of parts; therefore, we recommend

you set aside a full two days for assembly.

• Identify all of the parts for your play set. Empty each box and lay out boards so you

can see each part. Your instruction book will have detailed drawings that will make it

easy for you to recognize individual parts. Keep all hardware and metal parts separate

from wooden pieces.

• After everything is laid out, check carefully to ensure all parts are present. Make sure

there are no broken boards.

• Find an area to sort your hardware. It is best to open the hardware on a solid surface

so that you do not lose any pieces in the grass. This will save time and familiarize you

with all the different pieces in the hardware bag.

• Important note: Wood has some natural defects such as knots, surface cracks, etc…

We reject parts that are structurally defective. We use a high quality lumber in our

structures; however, you should inspect each part for splinters or rough spots and sand

them smooth to prevent injury.

• After familiarizing yourself with all of the components, read all instructions thoroughly.

Reading instructions after you have studied the parts will help you understand the

installation process, and help to eliminate unnecessary mistakes.

• Pay close attention to the diameter and length of each bolt and screw.

• Never tighten hardware completely at rst. It helps to have some adjustment for bolt

alignment while you are attaching parts together. After everything is square, tighten

each joint.

• After the main unit is assembled it is critical that the oor is level and square. If the

main frame is not level, the walls and oor will be out of square.

• After you complete installation, make sure every bolt, screw, and nut is tight, and every

board is secure. Wood will expand and contract with the seasons.

• Place the set on level ground, not less than 6 feet from any structure or obstruction

such as a fence, garage, house, overhanging branches, laundry lines, or electrical

wires.

Parts are stamped for ease of identication

and assembly

1851S

8

Counter-Sunk Hole

Through Hole

This page is a list of denitions and explanations used throughout our

instructions to aid you in the assembly of your play set.

Offset Holes- Throughout the installation procedures we will refer to parts with offset

holes. This refers to the orientation of the holes on the board. An offset hole is one that

is closer to one side than it is the other or in other words, it is not centered on the board.

In the procedures you will be instructed to attach the boards with the holes offset up or

with the holes offset down. This refers to which side of the board the hole/holes should

be closer to. Offset holes up= hole/holes will be closer to the top of the board. Offset

holes down= hole/holes will be closer to the bottom of the board. Note: some parts do

not have offset holes, but instead the holes are on center. Therefore there will not be

any reference on how to offset these parts.

EXAMPLE OF OFFSET HOLES UP

EXAMPLE OF OFFSET HOLES DOWN

Counter-sunk holes - Many of the parts that will be used have counter-sunk holes. A

counter-sunk hole is one that surrounds one side of a through hole, but does not extend

through the wood it’s self. When using a counter-sunk hole the bolt will be inserted

through the through hole and either the head of the bolt and washer or nut and washer

will occupy the counter sunk hole.

Lag Screws- Lag screws are used in the construction of our play sets to enhance

the structural integrity of the unit. There will not be predrilled holes in the post for lag

screw installation. Lag screws are self-tapping, though if you are using a manual socket

wrench it may be advantageous to pre-drill a hole rst. Instructions for this are provided

on a separate page in the front of the manual. Be sure to tighten the lags completely

when driving them in by hand. Power tools such as a heavy duty impact driver or large

power drill should have enough torque to drive in the lag screws, but make sure not to

over tighten as this can cause the threads to “strip out” in the post.

9

Common Installation Practice Installing T-nuts

When installing T-nuts into the wood, use a smooth faced hammer to set the face of the

T-nut ush into the wood.

Insert the barrel of the T-nut into the

predrilled hole. Using a smooth faced

hammer, drive the T-nut until the face

of the T-nut is ush to the wood.

This picture shows the T-nut inserted

and installed ush to the wood.

This picture shows an end view of the T-nut

installed ush to the wood.

WARNING: DO NOT EMBED THE TOP

OF THE T-NUT INTO THE

FACE OF THE WOOD

Cross Section end view, you are looking at an X-ray view

of the post and T-nut. The barrel of the T-nut is in the

corner post the line is the face of the wood.

Corner Post

T-nut

Flush (Correct)

10

IS HERE.

FLANGE

WASHER

BOARD YOU

CORNER POST

T-NUT

TO CORNER POST.

ARE ATTACHING

HEX HEAD BOLT

CROSS SECTION VIEW

OF BOARD, CORNER

POST AND FASTENERS.

LOCK WASHER

HOW A T-NUT WORKS

USUALLY THE FIRST STEP IN OUR ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS IS TO INSERT T-NUTS INTO THE CORNER POSTS. A T-NUT IS A

FASTENER WHICH IS THREADED ON THE INSIDE AND IT FUNCTIONS JUST LIKE A STANDARD HEX NUT. YOU INSERT THE

T-NUTS INTO THE PREDRILLED HOLES IN THE CORNER POSTS.

THE T-NUT HAS A BARREL SHAPED END WHICH GOES INTO THE HOLE IN THE CORNER POST. THE T-NUT ALSO HAS A

FLANGE SHAPED END WITH TEETH. THE TEETH PENETRATE INTO THE CORNER POST WOOD TO PREVENT THE T-NUT

FROM SPINNING WHEN YOU TIGHTEN THE HEX HEAD BOLT.

SHOWN BELOW YOU WILL SEE THE T-NUT IS HAMMERED INTO THE CORNER POST ON THE BACK SIDE. THE BOARD IS

BEING ATTACHED ON THE FRONT SIDE OF THE CORNER POST.

BACK SIDE OF

T-NUT

CORNER POST

CORNER POST.

WASHER

CORNER POST

ATTACHING TO

HEX HEAD BOLT

FRONT SIDE OF

BOARD YOU ARE

LOCK

WASHER

A

TEETH

INTO HOLE IN

END GOES

CORNER POST.

SCALE 2 : 1

DETAIL A

T-NUT DETAILS

SHAPED END

FLANGE

WITH TEETH

BARREL

SHAPED

THREADS ON

INSIDE OF

BARREL .

11

8" MINIMUM TO SURFACE 53" MINIMUM TO SURFACE

SWING BEAM LOADING

3) The MAXIMUM SWING BEAM LOAD IS 425 lbs.

Weight Limits for Accessories:

The weight limit for a Swing Belt is 225 lbs. (Although 150lbs is the maximum recommended

swinging weight capacity for the swing position.)

The weight limit for a Trapeze Bar is 125 lbs.

Maximum Allowable swinging weight for a three position swing:

1) The maximum allowable swinging weight at each Swing Belt position is 150 lbs.

2) The maximum allowable swinging weight at the Trapeze position is 125 lbs.

MAXIMUM SWING BEAM LOAD IS 425 LBS.

150 LBS MAX

TRAPEZE BAR

SWING BELT

SWINGING WEIGHT

150 LBS MAX

SWINGING WEIGHT SWINGING WEIGHT

125 LBS MAX

SWING BELT

THIS END OF THE

SWING BEAM IS

ATTACHED TO

THE PLAY SET.

CHAINS ADJUST

AT TOP TO SET

SWING HEIGHT.

12

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